Gangtok Tourism

Take a mystical journey to Gangtok, a hidden gem in the majestic Eastern Himalayas. Lose yourself in the enchanting blend of serene monasteries, vibrant festivals, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Gangtok is the capital city of the Indian state of Sikkim. Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls, Gangtok offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The city is renowned for its serene Buddhist monasteries, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Whether you seek tranquility amidst the serene landscapes or adventure in the rugged terrains, Gangtok has something for everyone. Explore the ancient Rumtek Monastery, take a cable car ride for panoramic views, or indulge in thrilling adventure sports like paragliding and river rafting. Immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage by witnessing colorful festivals like Losar, Saga Dawa, and Dasain. With its pleasant climate throughout the year, Gangtok is a year-round destination with an unforgettable experience.

 

Gangtok Historical Significance

Gangtok, the capital city of the Indian state of Sikkim, carries a significant historical background that speaks to the region’s rich heritage. The city’s history dates back to the establishment of a small monastery by the Namgyal dynasty in the 1840s. Over time, it grew into a bustling settlement, becoming a center of Tibetan Buddhism and Sikkimese culture. Today, it is a vibrant and picturesque city that blends its historical roots with contemporary life.


Facts About Gangtok

Major Attractions
  • Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Ganesh Tok, Enchey Monastery
Language Spoken
  • Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, English
Must Buy
  • Handicrafts, Tibetan Carpets, Tea, Spices, Traditional Attire
Time Zone
  • GMT+5:30
Experiences
  • Trekking, River Rafting, Paragliding, Cable Car Ride, Yak Safari
Cuisines
  • Phagshapa, Thenthuk, Churrpi, Thukpa


Festivals in Gangtok

  • Losar Festival: Celebrated in February, Losar marks the Tibetan New Year. It is a vibrant festival filled with traditional music, dance, and religious rituals. Visitors can witness colorful processions and enjoy traditional delicacies.
  • Dashain Festival: Celebrated in September or October, Dashain is a major Hindu festival in Gangtok. It spans over ten days and involves various rituals, cultural performances, and feasts. Visitors can witness the grandeur of this festival and experience the local traditions.
  • Tihar Festival: Also known as Diwali, Tihar is a five-day festival celebrated in October or November. It is a festival of lights marked by oil lamps, colorful decorations, and cultural performances.


Travel Tips To Visit Gangtok

  • Acclimatize: Take it easy for the first few days to prevent altitude sickness.
  • Dress in layers: The weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and carry warm clothing.
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly at religious sites and seek permission before taking photos.
  • Carry identification: Keep valid identification handy for permits and registrations.
  • Stay hydrated and try local cuisine: Drink plenty of water and enjoy the delicious local food.

Read more
Read less

    Ask an Expert

    * required field

    Submit  


    Popular Tour Packages

    himachal-pck

    11 Nights & 12 Days

    Himachal & Leh Bike Tour Package

    manali-image-ftr

    8 Nights & 9 Days

    Manali & Leh Vacation Package

    lahaul-spiti-bike-tour-ftr

    9 Nights & 10 Days

    Lahaul & Spiti Bike Tour Package

    srinagar-leh-manali-bike-tour-ftr

    9 Nights & 10 Days

    Srinagar-Leh-Manali Bike Tour Package

    10 Nights & 11 Days

    North India Vacation Package: Amritsar, Dharamshala & Shimla

    golden-triangle-with-shimla-ftr

    9 Nights & 10 Days

    Golden Triangle with Shimla Vacation Package

    4 Nights & 5 Days

    Shimla Vacation Package

    5 Nights & 6 Days

    Dharamshala & Dalhousie Vacation Package

    THINGS TO DO IN GANGTOK

    Cable Car Ride

    Cable Car Ride

    Take a thrilling cable car ride from Deorali to Tashiling and enjoy panoramic views of Gangtok’s stunning landscapes. It’s a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of the city.

    Boating

    Boating

    Tsomgo Lake is a mesmerizing glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a serene boat ride or simply soak in the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings.                                 

    Adventure Sports

    Adventure Sports

    Gangtok offers a range of adventure sports for adrenaline enthusiasts. Try paragliding, river rafting, or trekking to explore the rugged terrains and experience an adrenaline rush.

    BEST TIME TO VISIT GANGTOK

    SUMMER SEASON

    (March to May)

    Gangtok experiences mild temperatures during summer. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities. The blooming rhododendrons add vibrant colors to the landscape, making it a treat for nature lovers.

    MONSOON SEASON

    (June to September)

    Gangtok receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. While the rain may limit outdoor activities, the lush greenery and misty landscapes create a mystical ambiance.

    WINTER SEASON

    (December to February)

    Winter in Gangtok brings chilly temperatures, with temperatures dropping to 0°C or below. This is the perfect time for snow lovers to witness Gangtok’s winter wonderland.

    HOW TO REACH GANGTOK

    Gangtok can be reached by flight, train, or road:

     
    By Flight
    By Train
    By Road
    The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport, located in West Bengal. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Gangtok, which is approximately a 4-5 hour drive.
    The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station, located in Siliguri. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Gangtok, which is approximately a 4-5 hour drive.
    Gangtok is well-connected by road to major cities in Sikkim and neighboring states. Regular bus services operate from Siliguri, Darjeeling, and other nearby towns. Private taxis and shared cabs are also available.

    POPULAR PLACES TO VISIT IN GANGTOK

    Sikkim Destinations

    FAQs about Gangtok Travel Guide

    Do I need any permits to visit Gangtok?

    Yes, Indian nationals require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit certain restricted areas in Sikkim, including Gangtok. Foreign nationals need to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit these areas.

    What is the local cuisine of Gangtok?

    The local cuisine of Gangtok offers a delightful blend of Tibetan, Nepali, and Sikkimese flavors. Some popular dishes include momos, thukpa, gundruk, and sel roti.

    Are there any shopping opportunities in Gangtok?

    Yes, Gangtok offers a variety of shopping options, including the famous MG Marg, where you can find traditional handicrafts, Tibetan artifacts, woolen garments, and local teas.